Birds as Sheep Dogs.

Manawatu Herald, 10 September 1896, Page 3

Birds as Sheep Dogs.

» The natives of Venezuela and adjoining countries on the north side ©f the River Amazon often avail themselves of the services of a native <_rane to care for their poultry, and also ia the place of collies or shepherd dogs used by North Ameri sans and Europeans to guard and herd their domestic animals. Tbis remarkable bird, which the Indians call yakamik, is found in a wild state in great forests that lie botween the northern coasts of South Amerioa and lhe Amazon River, particularly in Venezuela snd British Guiana. The birds never leave the forest unless shot or captured. The yakatniks are very readily tamed, aod prove valuable servants to the Indians, who domesticate them, sinoe they are not only courageous, bat will protect animals entrusted to their oare at every risk to themsalves. Even dogs are obliged to yield to their authority. Tbey may ba trusted with the oare of a flock of shaep or domestic fowls, and every Homing will drive the ducks and paoltry to their feeding places, and, oawfolly collecting any stragglers, bring tliem safely home at night. A^akamik soon learns to know and obey the yoice of his master, following when permitted wherever be goes, and appears delighted at receiving his caresses. It repines at his absence, and welcomes his return, and is extremely jealous of any rival. Bhonld any dog or oat approaoh, it flies at tbe iatruder with the utmost fary, and, attacking it with wings and beak, drives it away.— Pearson's Weekly.